Footsteps thundered violently through the corridor. The echoes of battle were everywhere.
And in the middle of that chaos, Neros fought in a hallway near the guest room.
His sword flashed in a precise arc as he advanced against three hooded orcs.
A PUNCH.
His left hand slammed into one of their faces, sending it stumbling back with a dry crack.
CLANG.
At the same time, the sword in his right hand blocked another attack, deflecting a rusted blade aimed at his neck.
And without losing rhythm…
THUMP
He drove a kick into the chest of the third, sending it crashing against the wall.
But before he could finish—
WHAM
A hammer cut through the air and smashed into one of the orcs' heads. The impact was brutal. The body dropped to the ground without resistance.
Neros turned his head, surprised.
"…ah…"
A faint smile appeared.
"So it was you, lad."
He adjusted his grip on his sword.
"Much appreciated, but it wasn't necessary."
And in the same motion—
SHHNK
